What happened
On 19 February 2006, a Medway Microlights Eclipser, registration G-BZGE, was conducting a private flight near Woore, Shropshire. While cruising at 1,200 ft with the engine set to a standard 2,300 rpm, the engine experienced a significant power reduction, dropping to roughly 1,900 rpm.
The pilot attempted to restore power using the foot throttle but was unsuccessful. Consequently, the pilot selected a field for a forced landing. Upon approaching the landing site, the pilot observed deep ruts at the far end of the field, which necessitated a longer approach. During the landing flare, the pilot attempted to retard the throttle to idle; however, the engine power failed to decrease. This caused the aircraft to land long, resulting in a collision with trees and a barbed wire fence. The pilot sustained minor injuries.
The investigation
The investigation examined the engine's history and the aircraft's control configuration. It was noted that the engine had previously experienced overheating issues, leading to the installation of new cylinder heads. The aircraft featured a dual throttle system consisting of a hand throttle for cruise operations and a foot throttle.
Investigators looked into two potential causes for the initial power loss. The pilot suggested that carburettor icing might have been the cause. However, the investigation also considered that the spring-loaded slide in the carburettor could freeze if ice were present, preventing power reduction. An alternative possibility considered was that the pilot may not have fully closed the hand throttle during the incident.